Artesian and head bartender Hanson say toodle pip

The World’s Best Bar 2015 Artesian has parted company with head bartender Pip Hanson.

Drinks International understands there were professional differences but the split, which took place with immediate effect on Monday, was by mutual consent and amicable.

The Langham hotel, London, is now faced with finding what will be Artesian’s third leader since it was voted winner of The World’s 50 Best Bars 2015, its fourth successive win.

Former head bartender Alex Kratena and assistant Simone Caporale handed in their notices the day of The World’s 50 Best Bars ceremony on October 82015, and were followed out of the door by nine of their bar team.

Hanson, an American originally from Minneapolis, told Drinks International: “The Langham and I have parted ways. I wish the hotel management all success with Artesian and I am cheerfully looking forward to my next adventure. I tip my cap to the amazing group of bartenders and bar-backs who joined me on this leg of the journey: Fabio, Filippo, Romain, Gabor, Adam, Pierpaolo, Antim, and Matyas. It was a privilege to work with such a gifted team.”

A statement from the Langham read: “We can confirm that The Langham, London and Pip Hanson have agreed to part company. The decision was mutual and in no way reflects on Pip as a talented and innovative professional with a strong future ahead of him.

“The Langham, London is currently undergoing a period of evolution, with a specific focus being provided to our food and beverage offering. Artesian is very much a part of the ‘soul’ of The Langham, London and albeit brief, we would like to thank Pip for leaving his imprint on the World’s Best Bar and wish him all the best for the future."